Enzo Maresca has left his role as Chelsea head coach after 18 months in charge at Stamford Bridge.

 

 

 

The Italian departs with the club fifth in the Premier League table, 15 points adrift of leaders Arsenal following one win from their last seven top-flight games.

 

 

 

 

Chelsea is now expected to announce a new head coach in a matter of days.

 

 

 

 

Chelsea said in a statement: “Chelsea Football Club and head coach Enzo Maresca have parted company.

 

 

 

“During his time at the club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Those achievements will remain an important part of the club’s recent history, and we thank him for his contributions to the club.

 

 

 

“With key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track.

 

 

 

“We wish Enzo well for the future.”

 

 

 

Maresca’s final match was Tuesday evening’s 2-2 draw at home to Bournemouth, and amid reports of tension behind the scenes, the Italian refused to hold his post-match news conference, with his absence attributed to illness.

 

 

 

Chelsea return to action on Sunday, away to Manchester City, the first of nine fixtures across four competitions during a packed January schedule.